What is the recommended concentration of foam for extinguishing a house fire?

The recommended concentration of foam for extinguishing a house fire is typically around 0.3%. This concentration is effective because it provides sufficient coverage and film formation on burning fuels, which is crucial for smothering flames and preventing re-ignition.

Foam works by creating a blanket over the fire, which not only helps to cool the flames but also cuts off the oxygen supply, effectively suppressing the fire. The 0.3% concentration is particularly suitable for Class A fires, which include ordinary combustibles like wood, paper, and textiles. This low concentration maximizes the firefighting capabilities of the foam while being cost-effective and ensuring that large volumes are not required for effective suppression.

Higher concentrations, such as 1% or 2%, may not provide additional benefits in the context of a house fire and could lead to unnecessary resource usage without improving fire control. Firefighting foam is designed to be efficient; thus, using the correct concentration is essential for effective fire suppression strategies.